Abstract: A solid state apparatus for imaging with improved resolution, wherein there can be present at least two solid state sets of detector elements each set of which is sensitive to a different wave length of electromagnetic energy from the other. Each detector is situated such that it may record a picture element which is systematically offset from and partially overlaps the picture elements recorded by the analogous detectors of the other sets. There are existing computer programs for changing the data obtained into a form suitable for an image of better resolution than is possible when the analogous detectors record the same picture element of the scene without offset.

Abstract: A system for automatically mapping the surface of a celestial body is presented. A satellite in a near polar sun-synchronous orbit about the body includes two or three linear sensing photo-detector arrays mounted transversely to the satellite heading. With two arrays, both are oriented at the same angle to the geometric vertical, with one aimed forward and the other aft along the apparent track of the satellite. With three arrays, the third array is oriented downward toward the geometric vertical. Two of the arrays are used to sense the body surface with the satellite velocity providing continuous imaging. With rugged terrain, one angled array and the vertical array sense linear strips of the body disposed parallel to the apparent path of the satellite. With relatively flat terrain the angled arrays are used. Data is acquired by sensing the same elemental areas of strips from a first position in space with a first array, and once the satellite has moved to a second position, with the second array.